Transfer Rumors: Bayern Munich Likely To Fold In Haaland Chase, Ex-Defender Says

Seeing as Bayern Munich has been having success with its current roster, adding another prolific forward in Erling Haaland may not be needed, a former defender has suggested.

For FC Bayern to take in the 20-year-old striker, the club would have to shell out a staggering $733 million, according to reports. Hence, most do not see the Bundesliga champion spending that much, especially now that it is having a good run.

One person who believes it makes no sense for FC Bayern Munich to aggressively pursue Haaland is former defender Markus Babbel. As far as he is concerned, the only country that can afford the Polish striker is England.

"There is no chance that Bayern could get him because you would have to spend between €140 million ($170 million) and €180 million ($219 million). Bayern can't do it. The whole package is too expensive,” Babbel, speaking in association with Euro 2020 betting platform Unikrn, told Goal.

Bayern hardly needs to spend that much now. Also worth considering is that most clubs are trying to spend wisely. Interest in Haaland could however change in the future, assuming that the pandemic is gone and clubs have managed to balance their sheets.

Babbel also noted that there is a big disparity in age between Haaland and Bayern's current number nine Robert Lewandowski, and the latter has proven that he has still a lot to give.

“Haaland is a massive talent but there are 12 years in between and [Robert] Lewandowski has more experience and is still 100% fit. He knows the club, he knows the pressure and he can handle it. I can't believe that Bayern would change Lewandowski with Haaland,” he added.

For now, Bayern Munich can enjoy its run with its current manpower and resources. The club secured its ninth Bundesliga title with Lewandowski leading the charge. For Babbel, he remains the best number nine and Die Roten does not need to tweak things for now.

“He's a bit different to Messi or Ronaldo, but for me he is the best number nine. It would be fantastic if both of the best strikers that Bayern have ever had end on 40 goals and share the record," Babbel explained.

Even with Bayern Munich possibly out of the race for Haaland, several other teams could have their eye on the Norwegian footballer. Among the teams who could explore that are Manchester United and Chelsea FC. Other teams could join in, especially with the summer transfer window fast approaching.